NATIONAL GALLERY – OLD SUPREME COURT

White ink and charcoal on A3 black paper

The National Gallery sketches are the first two that I combined white ink and white charcoal. I added white charcoal as I find that white ink is too stark against black for white concrete buildings. I personally like the effect from the mixture of these two medium.

I find it interesting that the Old Supreme Court and the Old City Hall are both very grand but in different ways. The Old Supreme Court has a lot more differentiating details on the building, like the Tympanum and central dome at the top. I read up about the significance of the Tympanum, the triangular sculpture in the top middle of the building.

“The sculptures in the tympanum are dominated by the central figure of Justice. On the left, a figure represents the need for Mercy, while on the right, the Law is depicted by two legislators carrying books. Other figures symbolise Gratitude and Prosperity—the results of a system where law and order prevail.” (https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/architecture/historical/old-supreme-court/)

Justice is achieved with Law and Mercy, if done well gratitude and prosperity follow. Singapore has thus far been able to put this into motion. I am also reminded of the Scripture verse “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; Mercy and truth go before Your face.” – Psalm 89:14. Such wisdom.

Art print is available at https://www.phoonies.com/product/national-gallery-old-supreme-court-art-print/